Development Could Threaten Solberg Balloon Festival

Balloons ascended Friday evening for another Balloon Festival at Solberg Airport with the reality that the land around the airport continues to be under threat of development. Readington Township continues to seek preservation that would enable the Balloon Festival to continue. The Solbergs continue their efforts to expand and modernize the airport which would very likely result in the property being developed to an extent that would preclude shutting down airport operations for the time of the festival.

For years residents in the area of Solberg have enjoyed the ascensions morning and evening. The festival itself has transformed over the years from a balloon and aviation related event to a carnival midway and concert event with occasional hot air balloons.

There should be no doubt, however, that the airport expansion documented in the Solberg Airport Master Plan would certainly threaten the ability to continue hosting the balloon festival.